The Practical Mathematics manuscript contains definitions and problems related to algebra, geometry, trigonometry, navigation, and surveying. These categories are divided into specific applications; the section on algebra deals with topics such as basic algebraic statements, algebraic fractions, simple and quadratic equations, and arithmetical and geometrical progressions. Most of the problems are accompanied by illustrated figures and/or examples of concepts' practical applications. A section concerning globes pertains to both terrestrial and celestial globes, and includes a list of the signs of the zodiac, as well as descriptions of navigational methods, accompanied by a compass rose and charts, including "Mercator's Charts."
The manuscript also explains methods for determining location and time by observing celestial objects, and contains instructions for keeping ships' logs and surveying notes. A section on navigation includes a copied log from the voyage of the Pegasus from England to Barbados (January 31, 1737-March 22, 1737), as well as a map showing the coasts of France and Spain and the islands around Barbados. Some of the surveying problems are illustrated with a sailing ship, a tree, and a turret.
Partial List of Subjects
- Algebra
- Simple Equations
- Quadratic Equations
- Arithmetic Progressions
- Geometric Progressions
- The Use of Globes
- Terrestrial Globe
- Celestial Globe
- Spherical Geometry
- Spherical Trigonometry
- [Acute] Angled
- Right Angled
- Oblique Angled
- "To Find the Prime or Golden Number"
- Geometry
- Trigonometry
- Plain Trigonometry
- Spherical Trigonometry
- Navigation
- Latitude
- Longitude
- Sailing
- Plain Sailing
- Traverse Sailing
- Mercator's Sailing
- Parallel Sailing
- Oblique Sailing
- Plain Sailing by Arithmetic
- Observation by the Meridian Altitude or Zenith Distance of the Sun or Stars
- Rules for Keeping a Journal [Ship's Log]
- Astronomy
- Dialing
- Surveying
- Mensuration
- Mensuration of Superficies
- Mensuration of Solids
- Measuring of Timber
